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By Elisabeth Altamirano-Smith | Community Columnist

On the outskirts of Clanton, horse lovers can now ride off into the sunset. Last year, Mo’s Carriages and Trail Rides opened and is available for locals to connect with their equestrian friends. The horse-drawn service offers trail-riding with private or group tours, western riding lessons and carriages available for weddings, funerals, parties, anniversaries, church and family events.

“I enjoy the smiles and happiness horses give to people,” said owner Moses Gagakuma. “It brings joy. I am a people person and to impact someone’s life, especially kids is important to me.”

Gagakuma, originally a native of Ghana, grew up next to military stables in Ghana. He and his brothers spent their childhood riding the horses, attempting to replicate movie stunts and riding backwards. Through his time and devotion to the horses, he grew into a great rider and caregiver.

Moses immigrated to the United States on a scholarship to Troy University for his ability to run track. During his time here, he met others who shared their passion for horses, especially the Amish, who taught him how to drive carriages.

Today, he enjoys sharing his interest with others by offering horse encounters with gaited, Tennessee Walkers and American Quarter horses. For trail rides, Gagakuma initially assesses each person’s comfort level by giving a mini-lesson before each ride. Riders will then either take the jungle or scenic river trail ride depending on their ability.

The jungle trail is for beginners and is a slow, easy-going ride passing through bamboo, a nearby train track, and natural area with vines with the possibility of seeing wildlife. The scenic river trail ride is following the river trail, listening to the flowing water, which offers many hidden trails and great for the intermediate and advanced rider. Trail rides range from $80-90 per hour, depending on the number of riders in the group.

“The horses relax me and this service allows me to give to society,” said Gagakuma. “We welcome visitors to the stables. We cherish our horses. They all have different personalities, athletic abilities, foods they like and don’t like and have their best horse friends.  They each take their turn having vacation time to enjoy more pasture, with no work and all play.”

Moses also enjoys spending time with family and daughters, Nya, Amani, and Delali.

Mo’s Carriages and Trail Rides is located at 302 County Road 383 and available by appointment only. For more information, visit Mo’s Carriages and Trail Rides via Facebook or call 205-492-4667.